Enlightenment Philosophers Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the Enlightenment?

A period in history when human reason was valued, with many new ideas about politics, human nature, science, and religion.

What does Thomas Hobbes believe about human nature?

Thomas Hobbes believes that people are naturally selfish and wicked.

What type of government did Thomas Hobbes believe in and why?

Thomas Hobbes believed in an absolute monarchy because he thought a strong ruler was necessary to maintain order.

Which of Thomas Hobbes' beliefs are reflected in the quote about a common power keeping men in awe?

It shows Hobbes' belief that society would be in chaos without a strong leader. Signup and view all the answers

What does John Locke believe about human nature?

John Locke believes that humans can learn from experience and improve themselves. Signup and view all the answers

What contributions did John Locke make to American government?

Locke contributed the ideas of natural rights: 'life, liberty, and property'. Signup and view all the answers

Which of John Locke's beliefs are reflected in his quote about the preservation of life, liberty, and property?

The quote illustrates Locke's ideas about natural rights and the role of government in protecting them. Signup and view all the answers

What does Jean-Jacques Rousseau believe about human nature?

Jean-Jacques Rousseau believed that humans are born good but are corrupted by society. Signup and view all the answers

What were Jean-Jacques Rousseau's views on government?

Rousseau believed that governments should gain authority from the consent of the people. Signup and view all the answers

What ideas were presented in Rousseau's book, The Social Contract?

In The Social Contract, Rousseau argued that people make a contract with the government by agreeing to give up some freedoms for benefits. Signup and view all the answers

What impact did Rousseau have on world history?

Rousseau's idea that all people were equal inspired the French Revolution. Signup and view all the answers

What does Baron de Montesquieu believe about human nature?

Baron de Montesquieu believed that people are born equal but can become corrupt due to society. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Enlightenment Overview

A pivotal period that valued human reason and promoted new ideas in politics, human nature, science, and religion.

Thomas Hobbes

Described humans as inherently selfish, wicked, and untrustworthy.
Advocated for an absolute monarchy to maintain order and safety.
Believed strong governments prevent constant warfare among individuals.
Emphasized the necessity of a powerful ruler to impose order and ensure obedience.

John Locke

Proposed that all people are born equal and possess natural rights: life, liberty, and property.
Argued that the government's primary role is to protect these rights.
Stressed that governments derive their authority from the consent of the governed.
Influenced the Declaration of Independence through his concepts of natural rights and governmental responsibility.

Jean-Jacques Rousseau

Argued that humans are born good, happy, free, and equal but are corrupted by society.
Supported direct democracy and believed people should be trusted to vote.
Proposed a social contract where people relinquish some freedoms for governmental benefits.
His ideas inspired the French Revolution and promoted the notion of equality in governance.

Baron de Montesquieu

Believed humans are born equal but corrupted by societal influences and the pursuit of power.
Advocated for a government structure with three branches to prevent the concentration of power and encourage accountability.

Description

Explore the impactful ideas of the Enlightenment period through these flashcards. Learn about key philosophers like Thomas Hobbes and their views on human nature and government. Perfect for those looking to understand the roots of modern political thought.